I like flea markets and power tools, parties and pillows. I’m a mommy and a decorator, and a diehard DIYer. Join me and my little family as we renovate our new (old) home with lots of love and plenty of elbow grease.

Hello and Happy New Year!

Hi friends! Happy 2014!

I'm sorry for the radio silence - things have been quieter on the site than I meant them to be this week. Honestly, I've been getting a little burned out the past few months and I'm trying hard to shake off this funk, but I'm struggling a little. I had hoped the holidays would be a little more restful, but they were so crazy that I didn't really get a chance to hit that reset button during my time off. And sadly, it seems like every time I get this stressed out, something bigger happens with my health that forces me to slow down a bit. This time I fell and broke my arm at the elbow. I'm doing pretty good, and I don't need surgery like we thought I might. Just trying to take it easy for another few days. I'm hoping to use the down time to get re-energized and re-inspired. I'm hoping all the swelling goes down sometime soon too. I feel like a balloon! :)

A few days before I fell I managed to get a primer coat on the music room walls. The primer was tinted to be lighter and brighter (and a little less green) than the final color will be, but it's fun to get a sense of what the finished product will be. I can't wait to get that done!

I got a few other projects done over the holidays that I need to photograph and share, so I'll be back with those over the next couple days. Thanks for hanging tight while I get all this straightened out and while I focus on mending my arm (and my head). xoxo

153 comments:

I've been checking daily. I'm glad you're back because I I'm pretty new to your blog and I'm enjoying your renovations immensely as I'm just about to start my own. I'm happy that the lull is temporary. So many of my favorite blogs are fading away. I have a question about the brass faucets in your 'broken arm" photo (that really sucks!) did you just install them or are they original to the house? I am falling in love with unshiny brass antique looking brass. Do you know how to dull down gold aluminum shower frames?

I totally agree and want to reiterate that we will be here no matter how often you post!!! take care of you and yours Jenny. I am sooo glad I found your blog, you truly provide so much inspiration non-stop.. I actually can't quite fathom how you do it. I find myself thinking ( whilst painting something usually.. after reading for hours on end your new and old awe inspiring entries ) how it is actually humanely possible to achieve so much when you, like everyone else has only 24 hours in a day.... with kids, husband, business, pregnancies, moves etc ( and once again KIDS!! )you are my absolute go to for inspiration and I am so grateful for the incredible amount of energy ( and blood, sweat and tears ) that you pour into your blog for all of us.The absolute best of wishes for a brilliant 2014 and I hope you take some time out to relax and be pampered by your family!!!

I hope to see a lot more messages of love and support for this post, deserves the time and energy ( a lot more than giveaway posts...) though last night I was going through your archives and getting teary with the post about Evie's birth ( yep.. o.k sounding a little stalker_ish now, but thats kinda what you want for a blog.. right?! ) Fairly sure there were alot of messages of love and support with that amazing post... Very inspirational woman, definitely my fav blog! XO Nic

Get well soon, Jenny! I can only imagine the creative exhaustion you must feel - renovating a house is emotionally exhausting. It can never be done fast enough, no matter how hard you try, and having it be "undone" makes you feel like your nest is out of order, which is stressful (I find). And then, you have a very successful blog, which is of course, a blessing, but it also means that you have a lot of people....please pardon my vulgarity...sucking you dry. Not out of bad intentions, but the love you get is probably a little overwhelming at times (to say the least). So, from one of your biggest fans, remember that this blog should be your happy place, first and foremost. And if mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy. Be well!!!

Hang in there girl! And take all the time you need!! I figured something was up...you have always amazed me with how you are able to hold it all down and accomplish as much as you do- but everyone needs space and breaks sometimes - both mental and physical. I hope you get some much needed rest and an extra dose of inspiration too:) xoxo

Hi Jenny, I'm usually more of a lurker, but just wanted to wish you lots of support and strength from Europe. I realized something similar over Christmas so your post resonated. Good luck with recharging. It is probably the most important thing you can do for yourself and your family..

Best wishes with your arm and rest. I want you healed because you have such great ideas and execution. I broke my foot a few Christmases ago, I really had no time for a broken foot, and it was exhausting, but I spent the time resting and painting (on canvas) and it was really good to slow down. Hope you have similar results!

Take good care Jenny! You've posted enough in the last few months to cover many months to come when it comes down to it so give yourself some down time as none of us are going anywhere :) Sending thoughts of healing and rest to you!

You are my absolute favorite blogger and I'm so glad you're back on the scene. That being said, take some time to rest and recuperate! I'm constantly in awe of how much you manage to accomplish (I recently stumbled across an old post where you detailed an average day - whew!) and I'm sure it's high time you gave yourself a vacation. I think I speak for all of your readers when I say, take your time to heal yourself - we'll be here when you return. Lots of hugs and best of luck, Jenny!

aw! Sending lots of good vibes your way. I totally get why you'd feel down, with such a huge project (the house) and everything else.We're here, no matter how often your posts are - they are always an inspiration! I hope your family is taking good care of you! Please take your time to heal.

You completely inspire me...an unorganized working mother of two who can't even hang a picture and who dreams that someday my pantry will look like yours. Rest your head and arm and take some much needed time to mend. You are amazing.

I read your complete archives during the break, back to front, and came away so inspired at all that you do. PLEASE take this down time to get better -- we'll be here and so excited for when you return!

Oh gracious! You are such a life-force and everyone is amazed by all you do and wonder how you do it. I have so much respect and gratitude for what I've learned from your blog. Do take care of yourself, Jenny...is it weird to say lots of us love you without having met? Because I'm sure that's the case. I've been checking in daily too, and worried. Very sorry about your arm and the burn-out...hoping the former gives you time you need to get rested and rejuvenated! xoxo

Not to worry.....all of your fans will still be here after your broken arm down time. We aren't going anywhere. Just so sorry to read you are going through this. It's such a shame and I hope your pain levels are manageable. Be a good patient, rest and let that arm heal!

I am so sorry to hear about your arm!! What a nightmare!! But so glad to hear you may not need surgery. I just had foot surgery and thought I would use the downtime to blog and be creative, but it's SO HARD when you HURT! Take the time to rest up and heal. You are such an inspiration, and you have a bazillion fans who are rooting for you and your health and will be here no matter how much time you need off!

You have a very busy life with creative work inside and outside a new home and an energetic young family. It's OK to give yourself permission to rest up--that's not slacking! Your arm will heal, and your mojo will come back.

Well wishes for a speedy recovery. God works in mysterious ways and I hope this downtime is healing physically and mentally. We all love you and the blog and will still be here after your time off. Everyone needs time off from work. Don't feel bad for taking that time!

Get rest and feel better! We can wait! Your blog is my absolute favorite. During the holidays I started reding your blog from the beginning and am super inspired. You are super talented, and I have no idea how you do all you do - especially with kids! It's amazing. Take care!

So sorry about your arm. You definitely deserve an extended vacation. I hope that you are able to focus on feeling better without feeling guilty about not posting. We will be here whenever you are ready.

Take the much needed break. You always get more done in a year/week/day than seems humanly possible. Read a good book, flip through some magazines, enjoy the nice AZ weather (all the rest of us are freezing). They need to make a poster that says Keep Calm and Go To The Temple. :)

Oh no! I've been checking for new posts every couple days and thought to myself "I hope Jenny didn't get really sick, she's been gone a while" this is just as bad! I hope you feel better quickly!! We'll be here when you are back up and running.

Am glad to hear that you're all right, though with a broken arm! Will pray for you and your family as you move through this "enforced" sort-of-rest time for you. So sorry to hear about your injury. God bless and have a wonderful 2014. Love your blog.

Sympathy. This, too, shall pass (trite, but true!). I didn't break my arm, but I was also feeling the "funk." I get that way when there's too much going on over which I have no control (otherwise known as the holidays). Take care. BridgetG

Take your time and heal in every way. I so enjoy your blog, and I'm sure I can speak for everyone when I say we'll all be here when you return. Enjoy your family and your new home--and take care of yourself.

Ummm, you have moved across the country, are redoing a big house that needed a lot of love, you have a slew of littles to care for, you have fun times at your home for your family and others, the holidays are a lot of work for moms even though we love doing for our families, you blog for the enjoyment of many and I love your blog ( I just discovered it a few months ago and went back and read and pinned from way back!!)and you have a broken elbow - major OUCH!! Maybe a rest and a little slump or burn out is surprising you but just typing all of that made me tired!!! Take 5 or 10. You deserve it and need it. Your blog readers will be right here waiting when you come back and we'll just be glad you are feeling better when you do jump back in. If I weren't in Atlanta I'd come roll that gorgeous blue music room for you!!!

Oh no, feel better! I broke my wrist a few months ago and it was a very humbling experience. Dry shampoo, wet wipes, and a small pair of scissors (for opening anything and everything) were life-savers for me. And this video on how to tie your shoes one-handed: http://www.leadingthegoodlife.net/2013/07/20/how-to-get-by-with-your-arm-in-a-cast/

I woke up thinking about this post this morning, (having read it last night before going to bed) and I just wanted to send you healing vibes! You have been stirring a lot of pots all at once, so with the addition of a family holiday, there is bound to be a letdown. I love reading and looking at pictures of what you are working on,but PLEASE take the time to heal. I'm fine with waiting for you. Perhaps, I will get off the computer, and get some stuff done myself! Hey, there's an idea. "Inspired by Jenny" link up party/or guest posts. That might give you a little help with content generation. Take care!

Thank you for the update. Just last night I googled what happened to Jenny Komandas? I'm so sorry to hear about your arm and hope it heals quickly. Your following, and fans will stick, no matter what. Banish any pressure to post. Margaret

Oh honey, I am so sorry! Sometimes The Lord steps in with a reminder that you need to take care of you. Praying you'll feel better. You take all the time you need. I cannot wait to share 2014 with LGN!!!

you are so amazing jenny! i am always shocked by your boundless energy. glad to know that you are human :) please take some time to rest and recover - we will be here when you're up and about again! you're the best blogger out there!

I've been worried. The last time you went 2 weeks without posting it was tetanus. I knew something was awry! I will be praying that your body and soul mend quickly. Thanks for letting us know, there are many of us who develop a nervous twitch if we haven't had a dose of Jenny in a while, and it's awfully considerate of you to take the time to post this so we don't start dreaming up horrible worst-case scenarios. Thanks for taking care of your "fans," even when things are lousy. Now go take care of yourself!

You accomplish with one good arm what few can do with two ;) That said, someone higher up might be sending you a whisper. Take your time getting back to us Jenny; your legions of fans and sponsors aren't going anywhere. You've worked so hard in the past few years that you have the luxury to take a deep breath and take off the superwoman cape for a while. xo

The last time you went radio silence was because of the tetanus episode, so is it weird that I was worried something was up? When you feel like you're in a funk, just remember that you work at just about 4x the capacity of the normal person. Seriously. You crush these huge feats of DIY like a maniac, on top of momhood and blogland. It's perfectly understandable if you're a little burnt out. The arm thing probably wasn't a coincidence, and I'm (so!) sorry it happened, but dude- take advantage. Get some rest.

Jenny, I totally understand the need to reset. It's so hard to keep going and going. I'm so sorry about your arm. Take a rest and in the meantime I look forward to seeing the projects you completed over the holidays.

BTW, bought a rug on esale rugs for our baby's room - a bit of a splurge but it will be versatile in the future. Can't wait to get it!

I'm also generally a lurker, but just wanted to quickly write and wish you a speedy recovery! I know sometimes with health issues it feels like when it rains, it pours. Even though I wish I could read a new post from you every few hours because you have terrific taste, I also know how exhausting those posts can be to write (not to mention all the time it takes to put together whatever project you happen to be posting about!). Take care of yourself, and those of us who are your devoted fans can go back and read some of your archived posts to tide us over until you're back in action!

Oh, Jenny! You poor thing!! Please take time to rest!! You are so beloved by your readers, we are all more than happy to wait while you recoup! There is no one like you in the blogosphere- we'll all still be here when you return!

Bless your sweet soul!! I hope all of these comments make you feel very loved (as you so are!) and aid your healing process. We look forward to your next post - when you are ready, in your time. We aren't going anywhere! :)

Oh, Jenny. I started getting worried yesterday afternoon when I realized we never saw a final coat in the music room. You don't usually go dark like that... unless you have tetanus or something. Glad it's not that again, but this stinks, too. I hope you can get a break that is more metaphorical than literal.

Take as much time as you want, you were stressing me out with how often you posted something! We are also starting on a new house (a huge wonderful mess at the moment) and my resolution is to enjoy the process of cleaning, fixing and gardening. It can't happen all at once and each improvement is a success. Best to you - Vanessa.

All the best artists of all time struggle with that.It's because you are such a friggin' amazing creator.Hang in there and give yourself time and space to recharge and refresh.Hope 2014 is wonderful for you and your sweet family!

I am so sorry to hear about your arm! Rest and get well!! I can totally hear you, I broke my ankle on this holidays, and I am limping all day in pain… You are amazing, but you must remind to take care of yourself! Although we really really enjoy your posts, first things first, you have to get well and rest! I send you tons of good vibes!!

Yes, the last thing we all want is for you to burn yourself out and quit the blog! :) You are so inspirational. Sorry you've been in a funk. That is the worst. You are the one that has gotten me out of my creative funk, and I truly appreciate you for it! I hope you are well soon.

oh noes! So sorry to read about your arm. Thanks for making time to post today and I hope you can get some rest and relaxation somehow. Your blog is amazing and it doesn't matter whether you post frequently or not, I will always check in and read! take care!!!

I think you can tell from all of these posts that people don't just care about your blog posts, they care about you and your family...don't just wait until something "happens" to take it easy....take some time in between to refresh and renew! Warm wishes to you and your sweet family for a happy and healthy new year..!

I think you can tell from all of these posts that people don't just care about your blog posts, they care about you and your family...don't just wait until something "happens" to take it easy....take some time in between to refresh and renew! Warm wishes to you and your sweet family for a happy and healthy new year..!

Oh no! So sorry to hear of your injury! I hope it helps force some rest upon you. We moved to AZ at the tail end of 2012, and the Christmas/NY period that followed was a huge emotional drain for me. As you said, sometimes these things come along to help you take stock and take care of yourself. Best wishes for a speedy recovery!

Gads! I had a sense something was up when your site hadn't been updated - I was starting to get anxious for you. Do take care, we all love reading and seeing what you are doing, but we can wait until you are ready and healthy.

Sorry to hear about your injury! That stinks. Take as much time as you need girl! We all have plenty of old posts to keep us busy for years. You need this time to get your groove back. Love you Jenny!Dixie

Jenny- I am so sorry to hear about your elbow, I know how disheartening this must be! I've followed your blog for several years, and moves ;) now- and please just know from this reader like so many others, that you should absolutely take all the time you need- both now- and in the future. I am quite certain there is pressure to keep the posts, and clicks coming- but seriously, your content is such an incredible gold mine post after post- that we will be here for it, whenever it happens. Period. You GOT this Jenny!!! Now go recharge bosslady- Love you to pieces!!!!

Any chance of travel soon? I've read somewhere that taking a trip to a very different place is one of the best antidotes for creative blocks. And did you ever get the chance to appreciate all the gorgeousness that surround you right now? If not, then... be sure to enjoy your beautiful black fireplace, purple chandelier, yellow velvet chair, green closets --- did I cover most of the gorgeous colors you've brought into your home? And that wonderful blue in the music room! And that seductive red rug in the entryway! And... I think I'll stop here. Rest and recharge.

:( Oh lady! Take all the time you need! I think photographing and blogging need to be the least of your worries right now. How about how to cook a meal, put a shirt on and brush your hair! You've got bigger fish to fry!

We will all understand. You're fabulous, and if I've learned anything by events such as this, it often feels like God's way of saying "if you don't slow down, I'll have to allow something to slow you down." Ugh. Praying for a speedy recovery and I hope your girls are being great little helpers!

Thanks for letting us know what happened - it's funny how you can worry about someone you've never met! I told myself that this was the year I stopped looking at pretty house pictures and starting making a pretty house, so you picked a perfect time to take a break as far as I'm concerned. Best wishes to you for a peaceful recovery!

Hi! I love reading your blog and seeing all the projects you do around your home. I just re-read the DIY stair runner post from 10 Dec 2012, hoping to recreate it in my house (I just found solid pine stairs under some nasty old carpet). I have a couple questions about it though: how did the rugs hold up? Any pull away after awhile? The brad nailer you linked to didn't have great reviews on Amazon, is there anything else you would recommend, a year later? Thanks! (also, get well soon!)

Happy new year! Having the same issues myself getting 2014 started.Also fell-on Dec. 19- and broke my elbow. And like you, no surgery required. I spent 6 days in a splint and now three weeks later I am almost 100%. Most important-take it easy!!! I've had some good days where I do too much followed by a couple days of doing nothing but resting my arm. I agree it is a sign to slow down and be more mindful. I don't think I have ever felt more slothful but really feel like it has also been a gift to myself. (In addition to the elbow, I also got the flu four days later. Merry Christmas to me.)Hang in there. The music room looks marvelous. Your blog is wonderful. I figure with my end to 2013/beginning of 2014 - things can only get better. Hope that is true for you also.

Take care so you have a speedy recovery. Do what you need to do, especially any rehab on the arm/elbow, but be careful. Better to go slow for a little while than for a long time if the healing gets interrupted. Barbara H.

Get well soon!! I've found a few other bloggers have been exhausted and in a little funk themselves. I think its the time of year. So take your time, heal, decompress and you'll get your MOJO back. Try to read inspirational things. Watch a good chic flick that makes you laugh and happy. Turn on some great music! Journal your feelings if you can, so they're not bottled up. Drink lots of water and try to do a little exercise (walking, since you have a broken arm). It's good for the mind. Easier said than done with so many responsibilities but try it if you can. We'll all still be here when you're ready. :)

Your stamina lasted longer than mine would after a cross country move and major renovation. You've earned a break....just not the one you got. I hope you heal quickly, in the meantime, enjoy some down time.

I'm sorry to hear about your arm. I hope you make a full recovery. You are so talented and creative and kind to share it all with us I'm not surprised you need some rest. I always marvel at how much energy you have. Please take care of yourself.

Moving is a major stressor alone! I fell and broke my arm just above the elbow and had to have 6 pins and a metal rod put in my arm- it was miserable! I found the easisest clothes to wear were maternity tops with the sling while healing. Take time to rest and let your family pamper you!!! Love love your blog- think you are fab!

Hi Jenny! Your blog is hands down my favorite. You are so inspirational with your energy and ideas! I will definitely compulsively check for updates, just because I am excited for what's next, but I'm glad you're taking time to rest! Praying your elbow heals well and quickly!

I broke my wrist this fall at my daughters rollerskating party (talk about embarrassing) I had to have surgery (on the kids first day of school)and I thought I would never feel myself again. 4 mos later and my arm is totally mended. This is just the universe telling you to slow down a bit. In no time your arm and your head will feel better. Enjoy your amazing home! Corinne

I'm an avid follower of your blog over here in Scotland and although I LOVE your regular updates, your health comes first. Rest up! That 'funk' can become all-consuming so take time out. Your fans will still be here...we may not know you, but we are devoted. Haha! wishing you well xoxo

I love your blog and hope you are feeling better. As an OT and certified hand therapist, I see arm fractures and problems with swelling daily. If you haven't been referred to one by your physician, you might ask for a referral. I'm sure there are some great hand therapists in your area. Hope this wasn't too weird, but had to say something as I love helping people with similar deficits at my job and I've seen how much difference therapy can make with healing well. I love your blog, by the way, especially your DIY tutorials. So great.

oh gosh so sorry about your arm - and your head.. we have all been there at some time. i love reading about what you're doing but also know everyone needs a break sometimes :) I'll keep checking in to see what you're up to until you say you're not blogging anymore! (which i hope does not happen lol) take care of yourself :)

I think all moms are burned out after the holidays. We're so busy with the activity of giving to everyone else, we forget to give a little to ourselves. Start your 2014 by being good to yourself, and it will help everything else fall into place.

I am ALWAYS amazed by how much you do and blog all that you do! So it is completely under stable that you are burned out. Be gentle on yourself and let yourself heal a bit. Yes, sometimes our body tells us we need to slow down. I learned this a few years ago and now I have learned (slowly) to say NO more often, and not feel guilty about resting more.

Take care - we'll all be here if you want to take a break or post less per week.

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